Date:  Fri, 20 Jan 1995 10:27:09 EST

From:  Bruce Southard <ENSOUTHA[AT SYMBOL GOES HERE]ECUVM1.BITNET>

Subject: Re: 2 pl



Dennis Baron's remarks about "you guys" as a developing masculine

generic brought to mind my Illinois-raised wife's story of teaching at

the University of Richmond in the late 60's. She apparently announced

that "you guys" will have a test next Thursday and was surprised when

none of the women showed up for class. When this construction is

introduced to a non-"you guys" speech area, will it be interpreted as a

generic?



Regards,



Bruce Southard



Bruce Southard

English Department

East Carolina University

ensoutha[AT SYMBOL GOES HERE]ecuvm1

ensoutha[AT SYMBOL GOES HERE]ecuvm.cis.ecu.edu

919-757-6041

919-757-4889 (FAX)